Ankara: The Israeli army is reportedly gearing up to recommence military operations in the Gaza Strip if ongoing negotiations fail to extend the current ceasefire. The Israeli broadcasting authority highlighted this development, emphasizing the potential for renewed hostilities should an agreement not be reached.

According to Anadolu Agency, a senior Israeli security source underscored the necessity of an active agreement to maintain calm in Gaza. Without such an agreement, the only options remain the release of prisoners or a return to war. The source also pointed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's apparent reluctance to advance to the next stage of the prisoner exchange deal, despite reports from Israeli Channel 13 suggesting Netanyahu might consider prolonging the ceasefire for a few more days.

Further insights from KAN revealed warnings from another security source about the possible escalation in intensity if fighting resumes. The report alluded to support from US President Donald Trump for intensified military action, though details remain sparse.

The Palestinian group Hamas, which has been a key player in the ceasefire agreement, reiterated its commitment to the deal's initial terms and called on mediators to pressure Israel into proceeding with the second phase of the agreement. The first phase of the ceasefire is set to conclude soon, with the second phase originally scheduled to begin on February 3. However, Netanyahu's intervention has delayed this progression, as he seeks to extend the current phase to secure the release of more captives.

Yedioth Ahronoth reported that Netanyahu commenced discussions with Cabinet ministers to evaluate the future of the Gaza agreement, following Hamas' rejection of Israel's proposal to prolong the first phase. This comes after Netanyahu's unusual consultations with senior political and security figures upon the return of the Israeli delegation from Cairo.

The backdrop of these developments includes significant legal challenges for Israel, as the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice related to its actions in the enclave.